Parallels and divergences: a comparative analysis of martial arts and western sports ethics

This presentation explores the ethical frameworks of martial arts, tracing their origins to Eastern philosophical and religious traditions, and juxtaposes them with the ethics of Western sports derived from Greek agonal pedagogy. By examining the historical and cultural underpinnings of martial arts, we uncover a deeply philosophical approach that integrates physical discipline with moral and ethical contemplation. This analysis reveals both parallels and distinctions between Eastern martial ethics and the moral constructs of Western sports, influenced by figures like Thomas Arnold and the codification of athletics in the West. A particular focus is given to the ethical personalism inherent in martial arts, characterized by a commitment to nonviolence and the personal development of virtues through disciplined practice. The discussion extends to the implications of these ethical practices for broader educational and social systems, advocating for a holistic understanding of sports ethics that encompasses both individual actions and community values.